The London neighbourhood of Chiswick may be known for displaying many British middle-class features: Fairtrade coffee cafes, vegetarian restaurants and plenty of families with large prams taking up the entire pavement. What may surprise visitors is the neo-Palladian villa of Chiswick House. Visitors may think they have stumbled into the tranquil Italian countryside (until the heavy English rain makes them realise they are still in London).
The house itself is impressive. It's cared for by English Heritage and an army of passionate volunteers and caretakers. Fans of Palladio will adore wandering the home both inside and out. Entry into the house is closed until spring of 2017, but the gardens are open all-day everyday and are free of charge.
It is in the gardens themselves where you'll see many Chiswick residents going about their daily business - jogging around the greenery, walking their dogs and sharing tea and cakes in the Chiswick House cafe. Taking the classic architecture in stride shows how readily the residents have adopted this seemingly out-of-place Italian villa into their daily London lives.
Find your way with 276 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
Loved this Spot?Join your international community. Share your favs and become part of our international community!
Konjiki serves fresh, flavorful Japanese dishes from crispy Chicken Katsu to rich Sukiyaki. It's a cozy spot with occassional events, check their website!
by
Blink and you’ll miss it. This private little Loughborough Junction spot is well hidden, down a single-file alley off the otherwise unremarkable Hinton Rd.
by
The Hermit’s Cave is the kind of place the pub lovers ‘pop down for a quick one’ before dinner, a gentle spot for a gentle relationship with alcohol...
by
Bookmongers truly is one of the gems of Brixton. Just be warned, if you head down with a busy schedule, be prepared to miss your next appointment.
by
Inside are people that know each other, who have helped keep their boozer free from the relentless march of gentrification while so many others failed.
by
In essence, when it comes to stylish neighbourhood pizza joints, Theo’s has all the bases covered starting with banging pizza, fair prices and good drinks.
by
The French House has a long-standing reputation as a central pillar in London's historic district of dastardliness and debauchery...
by
"Swingers London" London is a crazy indoors golf course with a bar and lots of street food-style eateries. Tip: get a few cocktails at the bar beforehand.
by
"Peckham Levels" is in one of London's most formerly notorious neighborhoods. Now it's one of the coolest neighborhoods -- come and spend a whole day here!
by
276 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 276 Insider Tips